High density ratio Lattice Boltzmann simulations of binary and ternary systems (RDF17/MPEE/SEMPREBON)

The Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) is a computational fluid dynamic method to simulate multiphase systems. While several binary approaches are currently available, many phenomena involve more than two phases. We recently developed a novel ternary LBM, which accurately reproduces interfacial and wetting properties in complex geometries. The method is currently limited to fluids having equal density, whereas most applications involve liquid and gas phases with large density ratios. The first aim of this project is to develop a model to account for large density contrast.

Once the model with large density contrast is developed, two applications will be investigated:
1) The impact of immiscible drops is key phenomenon in modern combustion chambers (e.g. engines). Unlike drops of the same liquid, the dynamic interplay between different fluid properties crucially affects the combustion performance in terms of stability, completeness and efficiency. LBM simulation of head-on collision between two immiscible fuel drops at varying of physical and chemical parameters will be carried out. This study will be in collaboration with Prof. Kuo-Long Pan from the National Taiwan University.

2) Drop impact on Liquid Infused Substrates (LIS), which are typically obtained by infusing rough or porous materials with lyophilic oils. These surfaces have low contact angle hysteresis, self-cleaning, drag reduction, anti-icing and anti-fouling. Commercial applications provide an urgent demand to assess the stability limits of the oil layer in order to optimise the roughness geometry. While drop impact on flat and structured substrates has been intensively investigated, studies of impact on LIS are still lacking. LBM investigations will be carried out to assess the interplay between capillary, viscous and inertial forces while varying the surface geometry.

Eligibility and How to Apply
Please note eligibility requirement:
• Academic excellence of the proposed student i.e. 2:1 (or equivalent GPA from non-UK universities [preference for 1st class honours]); or a Masters (preference for Merit or above); or APEL evidence of substantial practitioner achievement.
• Appropriate IELTS score, if required (evidence required by 1 August 2017).

For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/

Please ensure you quote the advert reference above on your application form.
Deadline for applications: 20 January 2017
Start Date: 2 October 2017

Northumbria University is an equal opportunities provider and in welcoming applications for studentships from all sectors of the community we strongly encourage applications from women and under-represented groups.